South Valley Community Church is setting for visiting Watoto Children's Choir

The Watoto Children's Choir, on a six-month West Coast tour from its home in Africa, performs in San Jose on Feb. 15 at South Hills Community Church.

The choir serves as ambassadors for Watoto, a holistic approach to serving the needs of African children orphaned as a result of HIV/AIDS, war and poverty. Gary Skinner founded the Watoto Church; in 1994 the Watoto Child Care Ministries began. Each child in the choir has lost one or both parents. They live in Watoto Children's Villages where they receive care and nurturing.

"Through the choir's Concert of Hope, we share a message of transformation by telling the story of Africa's rescued orphans and women," Skinner says. "We hope to reach out to our audiences with the message of Christ's healing power."

The performance is an energetic fusion of contemporary gospel and traditional African rhythm. Those in attendance can expect to see colorful costumes, African music, dance and "life transforming stories," according to press material.

The Feb. 15 concert at South Hills Community Church, 6601 Camden Ave., in Almaden Valley, takes place at 6:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.